Description
A fabulous Fahrner Jugendstil design and carrying the “935” “DEPOSE” and partially rubbed Fahrner stamp in a circle. It was created c1908 and is similar to a few others I have had over the years in its curved lines and drops. There are some imitation pieces stamped merely with “925” in this exact design that I have seen over the years (much cruder in their appearance), however, this is very much a genuine antique Fahrner piece. Clean, confident lines, marks as they should be and everything is right about her. Similar pieces can be found in Schmundt Weber Becker’s book “Theodor Fahrner Jewelry between Avantgarde and Tradition” (pages 84 and 132) where there is a commonality with Alfred Bernheim’s designs. Also in Fritz Falk’s book “Art Nouveau Jewellery from Pforzheim”. where, on page 163, you can see a very similar brooch, by Alfred Bernheim. This would lead me to attribute design of this pendant to Bernheim too.
The 935 silver (higher grade than sterling) is crafted into a base circle structure, which has a more organic, sinuous silver structure laid over it. but I don’t have enough evidence to attribute fully. The two drops are so precise and have their immediately recognisable original chains. The gems are in fact amethyst paste, which I have come across before in other Fahrner pieces. I have also had Fahrner pieces with peridot paste used for the same reason. Achieving the exact colour required was key to the piece, so sometimes paste stones were used. This was true too of the Arts and Crafts designers of the same era and later.
The lines of this piece are so impressive, clean, confident and with the cut-out sections of the design, it makes for an extremely attractive Jugendstil design. The bale is a fixed bale, as I have seen with other similar Fahrner pieces too. It feels “right” in your hand. The pendant measures approx 5.6cm in height. The chain is a barrel clasp antique silver chain and measures approx 40cm (5.75 inches) in length. Pleasingly the pendant is in original condition, even the chains on the drops are the originals. The only tiny thing to note is that to the left circle where the bale fits, the silver end does not quite touch the circular structure. It is minute, not evident and not weight bearing. Mentioned for accuracy purposes. A lovely example.
I will send by complimentary express courier internationally or else Special Delivery within the UK-thank you. Box in images is for display purposes only.
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